Wastewater Protocols

Overview

NSF P150: Tissues in Septic Systems

NSF P157: Incinerating Toilets

NSF P353: Sewage Sludge Sterilization

Protocol Development Process

NSF protocols are similar in many ways to NSF/ANSI standards, but do not undergo review and approval by an NSF joint committee. Instead, they undergo review and approval by a smaller technical panel that includes experts in onsite wastewater and stakeholder representation from industry, public health and user communities. Protocols are generally developed for smaller industry sectors.

Product innovations sometimes outpace the standards or regulations required for product acceptance, leaving manufacturers with an excellent product, but an unreceptive marketplace.

NSF International has over 40 years of experience creating standards and protocols, as well as testing and certifying products, for the wastewater treatment industry. We can help you gain market access through our protocol development services. By creating customized testing criteria and validating performance and product claims, we give your product credibility in your desired markets.

NSF P150: Tissues in Septic Systems

NSF P150 evaluates the impact and fate of a tissue product entering a septic system. Tissues meeting the requirements of this protocol will not substantially increase sludge or scum accumulation, or substantially increase the loading of organic material and solids to the soil drain field. We conduct tests over a six-month period at one of our wastewater technology test facilities.

NSF P157: Incinerating Toilets

NSF P157 evaluates the health and sanitation characteristics of electrical incinerating devices designed to combust toilet waste. It specifies minimum requirements for materials, design, construction, performance and cleanability. We conduct actual use testing, including analyzing the ash end-product for the presence of fecal coliform microorganisms.

NSF P353: Sewage Sludge Sterilization

NSF P353 establishes requirements for organically-enhanced granular fertilizer manufacturers that use sewage sludge as a replacement for water. Certification verifies that the granular fertilizer product is free of pathogens, is noncombustible and meets the pathogen reduction and metals concentration requirements for Class A conditioned sewage sludge and PFRP requirements of the 40 CFR Part 503 rule. We analyze fertilizer samples for metals, combustibility and a variety of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, spores and parasites, including Helminth ova. Additionally, we verify that each facility producing organically-enhanced granular fertilizer adheres to Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) requirements.

Protocol Development Process

Step 1: Protocol Development — Like NSF standards, protocols are developed through a collaborative process involving a technical panel including the product manufacturer, regulators, academicians, end users and public health experts. Unlike NSF standards, however, the development phase is confidential, protecting your proprietary interests.

Step 2: Testing — Once the protocol is finalized, product certification begins. Your NSF project manager and our experienced laboratory personnel work as a team to guide you through the testing process, with accuracy, efficiency and timeliness as our top priorities.

Step 3: Certification — After your product meets all protocol requirements, certification is granted and your listing appears on our certified products website. You may then place the NSF mark on your products and promotional materials. In addition, we collaborate with you to promote the new protocol and your product as the first to be certified.